Houston Dash Look to Build Momentum Against Struggling Chicago Stars

(image via Houston Dash)

The Houston Dash will host the Chicago Stars at Shell Energy Stadium tonight before embarking on a lengthy road trip. The Dash are coming off a bounce-back 3-2 win over the North Carolina Courage, moving them into 11th place in the standings. Meanwhile, the Stars remain winless in their last six matches and sit at the bottom of the table.

When: Wednesday, August 19 | 7:00 PM CT kickoff

Where: Shell Energy Stadium; Houston, Texas

TV/Stream: CBS Sports Golazo

Cardiac Dash

In recent matches, the Dash have developed a habit of leaving it late, whether it’s finding an equalizer or scoring a winner to secure all three points. For neutral fans, it has made for some entertaining NWSL action. For Dash fans, however, it has been nothing short of a roller coaster.

There is a positive side to it, though. This team has shown that it is never truly out of a match, even when it feels like everything is going against them. One thing is certain: when the final minutes arrive, the Dash have been must-watch television this season.

Progress Is Happening

While the Dash have not climbed the table as quickly as they would like, there has been clear growth in the performances of several players. Linda Ullmark, Kate Faasse, and Kat Rader have become regular contributors and continue to develop into important pieces of the squad.

Newer additions such as Khyah Harper, Miljana Ivanovic, and Natalie Hammond have also quickly shown that they can make an impact and add valuable depth to the roster. The pieces are beginning to fall into place; now, the challenge is turning those performances into consistent results and points.

A Lost Chicago Side

It has been a difficult season for Chicago, with far more lows than highs. Mallory Swanson has returned from maternity leave and has looked more like her old self over her last eight appearances, but beyond that, the Stars have struggled to find consistency or direction.

The club is also navigating a coaching change after their head coach departed last week, leaving even more uncertainty around a team that is already winless in six matches. Chicago has dug itself into a difficult position, and this presents a major opportunity for the Dash to take all three points at home.

Availability Report

Houston Dash – Out: Malia Berkely (excused absence), Evelina Duljan (excused absence), Makenzy Robbe (SEI-knee), Sophie Schmidt (ankle)

Chicago Stars FC - Out: Ryan Connaughton (knee), Julia Grosso (thigh), Jordyn Huitema (SEI-knee), Natalia Kuikka (SEI-knee)

Predicted Lineup